Located on the shores of both the Gulf of Mexico and Choctawhatchee Bay, Okaloosa Island offers a plethora of thrilling water activities, including jet skiing, deep-sea fishing, kayaking, cycleboating, offshore fishing, stand-up paddleboarding, boat tours, and many others.
The beautiful beaches, watersports, and family attractions on this barrier island between Fort Walton Beach and Destin make it one of the best vacation spots in the country. Visitors can enjoy a game of beach volleyball on squeaky clean white sandy beaches. The world’s oldest, continually functioning live marine show, Sea Lion Village, is also popular attraction for sea-lovers on an Emerald Coast vacation.
Get a feel for why families continue to return to this island location for generations by taking the boat and eating at the restaurant. Explore our list of exciting island attractions and Okaloosa Island activities to help you make some amazing memories on your trip.
Most Popular Things To Do In Okaloosa Island, FL
MAXIMUM MAGIC at the Harbor Walk Theater
4.7 (155 reviews)
Credit: Noah & Heather Wells Present MAXIMUM MAGIC, Google Maps
Location: 10 Harbor Blvd #234, Destin, FL 32541, United States
Tel: 850 273 7888
Web Address: https://harborwalktheater.com/
Maximum Magic is the longest running show of its kind in Florida, and offers visitors a magical, interactive experience filled with world-class comedy, illusions, mindreading, and other special effects. The 90-minute, action-packed program is hosted by Noah and Heather, award-winning entertainers who are sure to have you on the edge of your seat.
This is an excellent option if you’re looking for family-friendly fun.
Escape Zone 60
4.2 (161 reviews)
Credit: Escape Zone 60, Google Maps
Location: 415 Mountain Dr STE 7, Destin, FL 32541, United States
Tel: 850 650 0023
Web Address: http://escapezone60.com/
This is another great family-friendly attraction to try while visiting Okaloosa Island. Visitors can try their hand at solving this live, interactive puzzle in under 60 minutes in order to escape. There are various rooms with different themes to choose from, from the tomb of an ancient Egyptian mummy to a mysterious mansion.
It is an activity ideal for adults as well as children, and you don’t need any special skills to enjoy it.
Shalimar Pointe Golf Club
4.0 (178 reviews)
Credit: Shalimar Pointe Golf Club, Google Maps
Location: 302 Country Club Rd, Shalimar, FL 32579, United States
Tel: 850 651 1416
Web Address: http://shalimarpointe.com/
This recently restored golf and country club can be found nestled on the shores of Choctawatchee Bay and includes an 18-hole course ideal for any golf lover. It is also an excellent place to stop for lunch or go for a leisurely stroll to admire the stunning natural scenery. The club is also home to a driving range and putting green, as well as a pro shop stocked with everything a golfer could need.
Oak Tree Nature Preserve
4.4 (185 reviews)
Credit: Ashley Colter, Google Maps
Location: Hollywood Blvd W, Mary Esther, FL 32569, United States
Tel: 850 243 3566
Web Address: http://cityofmaryesther.com/
Considered one of Florida’s hidden gems, the Oak Tree Nature Park and Preserve is another great attraction for anyone who loves nature. This scenic state park offers a natural trail through the woods, with streams and wild plants. It also has a lot of shade and is quiet, making it an excellent area for relaxation in the great outdoors. Here, visitors can enjoy walking their dogs or simply admiring the local wildlife that can be spotted among the trees.
Don & Susan Stillwell Park
4.4 (196 reviews)
Credit: Gary Jenkins, Google Maps
Location: 710 Essex Rd, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547, United States
Web Address: http://co.okaloosa.fl.us/pw/parks/stillwell
Located on Fort Walton Beach, Don & Susan Stillwell Park is a great area to spend time with the whole family. The park is home to a playground, a paved walking trail, basketball courts, pavilions, and a lot of open green for children to play on. The park is gated, making it extra safe, and has BBQ and picnic areas where visitors of any age can enjoy lunch.
It is a great little park to get away from the hustle and bustle.
Wat Mongkolratanaram Fort Walton Beach
4.8 (225 reviews)
Credit: Bryan Parks, Google Maps
Location: 741 Mayflower Ave, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547, United States
Tel: 850 863 2906
Wat Mongkolratanaram is a stunning Buddhist temple that hosts regular weekend market where visitors can enjoy authentic Thai dishes, including iced tea and Pad Thai. During these events, fresh produce is also available at excellent prices. Visitors can enjoy their food indoors, outdoors, or as a takeaway.
Keep in mind that only cash is accepted, so come prepared.
Destin History & Fishing Museum
4.7 (287 reviews)
Credit: Igor Sherman, Google Maps
Location: 108 Stahlman Ave, Destin, FL 32541, United States
Tel: 850 837 6611
Web Address: https://destinhistoryandfishingmuseum.org/
This non-profit organization is the perfect attraction for lovers of history and nature. Since its founding in 2005, the Museum has been exhibiting the area’s maritime history, from the mid-1800s and the early pioneer days to the present-day Destin Harbor. There are various fun and fascinating exhibits to be enjoyed by visitors of all ages, such as the Mike Long Memorial Fish Wall – home to more than a hundred wall-mounted fish.
Norriego Point
4.6 (297 reviews)
Credit: Dinesh Chitlangia, Google Maps
Location: Destin, FL 32541, United States
Web Address: http://cityofdestin.com/102/Parks-Recreation-Department
If you’re looking for a great beach to visit on your trip to Okaloosa Island, be sure to stop by Norriego Point. The beach is home to white sand and calm emerald waters that are perfect for swimming. There are various water-based activities available, such as jet skiing, boating, and scuba diving. And, if you’re looking for something more relaxing, you can sunbathe on the hot sand and watch as people come and go.
Clement Taylor Park
4.4 (319 reviews)
Credit: Jamanta Faz, Google Maps
Location: 131 Calhoun Ave, Destin, FL 32541, United States
Tel: 850 654 5184
Web Address: https://cityofdestin.com/facilities/facility/details/Clement-Taylor-Park-5
Clement Taylor Park consists of 3.55 acres of land with family-friendly amenities like a pier, beach volleyball court, waterfront gazebo, swimming area at the beach, playground, pavilion, and picnic area with grills. Additionally, the park is a great site for watersports like kayaking and paddleboarding. There is ample parking available for guests to the park.
Liza Jackson Dog Park
4.5 (524 reviews)
Credit: Samantha Corl-Ventura, Google Maps
Location: 342 Miracle Strip Pkwy SW, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548, United States
Tel: 850 833 9576
If you’re an animal lover or traveling with your fluffy best friend, be sure to stop by the Liza Jackson Dog Park on your next trip to Okaloosa Island. The park is home to several dog-friendly play areas of varying sizes, and there are water fountains to keep your pooch hydrated on hot days. There is also a shallow beach area ideal for dogs who enjoy swimming. Additionally, there are many shaded areas where you and your pup can relax and unwind after a day of playing.
Okaloosa Island Beach Access Four, Jerry Melvin Beachwalk
4.7 (605 reviews)
Credit: Mark Martinez, Google Maps
Location: 600 Santa Rosa Blvd, Okaloosa Island, FL 32548, United States
Tel: 850 689 5790
Web Address: https://myokaloosa.com/pw/parks/beach-access-4
This is another great beach in Okaloosa Island, with clean water, soft white sand, and boardwalks that span across it. Parking is free, and there are bathroom and shower facilities. It is also one of the less busy beaches, making it an ideal place to relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of the busier tourist areas.
This is a great place for a picnic or to spend quality time with your loved ones.
Destin Snorkel
4.6 (754 reviews)
Credit: Destin Snorkel, Google Maps
Location: 56 A Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541, United States
Tel: 850 269 2329
Web Address: http://destinsnorkel.com/
Destin Snorkeling offers a variety of activities for you to enjoy while vacationing on the Emerald Coast. Visitors can join a two-stop snorkeling tour or SNUBA diving tour, both excellent ways to see stunning tropical fish. There are also several private dolphin cruises for visitors who enjoy viewing the local marine wildlife. And, if you’re traveling with younger visitors, be sure to book one of the shelling tours and take home some sea treasures.
Goofy Golf
4.5 (792 reviews)
Credit: Jamie Bell, Google Maps
Location: 401 Eglin Pkwy NE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547, United States
Tel: 850 862 4922
Web Address: https://playgolfnearme.com/goofy-golf
Goofy Golf is another great attraction for families vacationing with younger kids. This 18-hole putt putt (mini golf) course is beloved by locals and tourists alike for its fun atmosphere and affordable prices. The course is home to various fun statues, including a large elephant and t-rex, making it a fun place for taking photos, as well as to play mini golf.
It offers the ideal activity to fill an open afternoon with the family.
Fat Daddy’s Arcade
4.2 (856 reviews)
Credit: Ricardo Lenz, Google Maps
Location: 20009 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, FL 32541, United States
Tel: 850 424 6021
Web Address: https://fatdaddysarcade.com/locations/destin/
Fat Daddy’s is known for being the largest arcade in Florida, with over a hundred games to choose from. It offers all the classic attractions one can expect from an arcade, including claw machines, arcade games, basketball hoops, and interactive action games. Some of the most popular games include Wizard of Oz, Air Hockey, Tower of Tickets, and Jurassic Park. There are various food and drink options available, making it ideal for an evening out or indoor fun on rainy days.
Crab Island
4.8 (1,201 reviews)
Location: Crab Island, Destin, FL 32540, United States
Tel: 872 267 2722
Web Address: http://crabisland.com/
Crab Island is a popular attraction for vacationing tourists in Florida. It is world-renowned for its stunning emerald green waters, floating bars, water sports, and obstacle courses. It has also been featured on the news and morning talk shows, increasing its popularity. Today, it draws hundreds of visitors each year to enjoy everything it has to offer.
Due to its shallow waters, it is a popular spot for swimming and anchoring boats. It is also a popular spot for cruise ships traveling along the Emerald Coast. If you are a social and outgoing traveler, Crab Island is the perfect attraction for you!
Gator Beach, Okaloosa Island – The World’s Greatest Alligator Park
4.3 (1,395 reviews)
Location: 20001 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, FL 32541, United States
Tel: 850 654 4200
Web Address: http://gatorbeach.com/
Gator Beach is a one-of-a-kind, top-rated attraction that offers visitors and locals alike some truly unique experiences. It is the largest of its kind on the Emerald Coast and a must-see for anyone visiting Okaloosa Island, FL. Besides the fascinating shows and exhibits, making it ideal for any animal lover, Gator Beach is entirely free to visit with no admission costs. The shows are also free of charge.
Activities include feeding live alligators, taking pictures with live alligators, and seeing adorable baby alligators up close.
Fort Walton Beach Landing Park
4.5 (1,440 reviews)
Credit: Renee’ Sheldon, Google Maps
Location: 139 Brooks St SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547, United States
Tel: 850 833 9500
Web Address: https://fwb.org/parksrec/page/fort-walton-landing
If you’re fond of parks, this is a lovely little spot to watch the boats go by and listen to the ocean. IT offers some great views, as well as a playground for younger visitors to enjoy. If you’re looking for a peaceful area to relax after a long day of sightseeing, Fort Walton Beach Landing Park is an excellent choice.
Air Force Armament Museum
4.8 (4,352 reviews)
Location: 100 Museum Dr, Eglin AFB, FL 32542, United States
Tel: 850 882 4062
Web Address: http://afarmamentmuseum.com/
The Air Force Armament Museum is dedicated to preserving the history of Air Force Armament through fascinating exhibitions and artifacts. It is home to a variety of aircraft, some dating back as far as World War II. There are also hundreds of pieces on display, including guns, bombs, and missiles. Entry is completely free.
If you’re fond of history, this is the ideal attraction for you.
Emerald Coast Science Center
4.5 (464 reviews)
Location: 31 Memorial Pkwy SW, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548, United States
Tel: +18506641261
Web Address: http://www.ecscience.org/
If you’re a lover of science or simply looking for a fun activity to enjoy on an afternoon out with the family, be sure to stop by this interactive science museum. Here, visitors of all ages can enjoy live science experiments, interactive exhibits, real robots, and educational programs with animals. These include parrots, snakes, degus, hedgehogs, tarantulas, turtles, bearded dragons, and chinchillas.
Henderson Beach State Park
4.8 (6,801 reviews)
Location: 17000 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, FL 32541, United States
Tel: 850 837 7550
Web Address: https://floridastateparks.org/park/Henderson-Beach
Henderson Beach State Park includes thirty feet of snow-white sand and warm water, making it one of the most popular swimming spots in the area. Besides relaxing in the sun, this protected area also offers activities like camping, fishing, cycling, and walking the stunning nature trail in search of local wildlife. Additionally, there are picnic areas available if you’re in the mood for a quick lunch next to the ocean.
Our Top picks
The Boardwalk, Okaloosa Island
4.6 (752 reviews)
Credit: The Boardwalk, Okaloosa Island, Google Maps
Location: 1450 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548, United States
Tel: 850 301 0959
Web Address: http://theboardwalkoi.com/
The Boardwalk is one of the most popular attractions in Okaloosa Island, for its stunning views of the ocean, excellent shopping opportunities, and variety of beach and water-based activities. It is also a great place to have some fresh seafood at one of the many dining areas. Some of the most popular include The Crab Shack: Seafood and Oyster Bar, Rockin Tacos, and Floyd’s Shrimp House. Stop by Pino Gelato on your way home for some of the best cold treats on the Emerald Coast.
Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone
4.3 (1,680 reviews)
Credit: Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone, Google Maps
Location: 1306 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548, United States
Tel: 850 400 3300
Web Address: http://wwazone.com/
Wild Willy’s Adventure Zone offers thrilling fun for the whole family. From rollercoasters and animatronic golf courses to bungee trampolines and go-karting – Wild Willy’s has it all. And with a wide range of food and drink options, visitors can easily spend an entire day at this adventure park. Park activities can range from 5 USD to around 30 USD. While this may not be the cheapest attraction in Okaloosa Island, it is well worth visiting to discover everything it has to offer.
Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier
4.6 (2,097 reviews)
Credit: Infrogmation Orleans, License, Wikimedia commons
Location: Okaloosa Island, FL 32548, United States
Tel: 850 244 1023
Web Address: http://theislandpier.com/
The Okaloosa Island Pier (or simply The Island Pier) is a great place to take relaxing strolls, go fishing, or enjoy some water sports. It stretches out over the Gulf of Mexico for more than a thousand feet and offers the ideal spot to take in some breathtaking sunset views over the water. Locals and visitors alike enjoy looking at local wildlife, which includes sea turtles, dolphins, and pelicans.
Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
4.4 (6,076 reviews)
Location: 1010 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548, United States
Tel: 850 243 9046
Web Address: http://gulfarium.com/
This is one of the best attractions for animal lovers visiting Okaloosa Island. The aquarium is home to a wide range of marine life, from dolphins and seals to penguins, stingrays, and reptiles. The park is also an excellent educational attraction for families with kids, offering many events and shows throughout the year. Be sure to visit the Gulfarium for a truly immersive experience.
Final Words
Thank you for reading our list of the best things to do in Okaloosa Island, Florida! We hope it helped you plan the perfect itinerary for your next trip to this fantastic destination. Happy travels!
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